USS Bowfin - Main Generators, Motors, and Batteries

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Main Generators, Motors, and Batteries
USS Bowfin (SS-287)
Where the power comes from

The propellers of a diesel-electric submarine such as Bowfin were driven by four main motors arranged in pairs to drive each propeller shaft through a reduction gear. Power for driving the main motors is obtained from one of two sources: the four main generators driven by the main diesel engines; or, for submerged operation, by the main storage batteries.

G.E. Main Generators

Each of the four direct-current (DC) generators is rated at 1,100 kilowatts, 415 volts, and 750 rpm. They generate power for driving the propulsion motors and charging the storage batteries. They are cooled by a surface air cooler. Each generator is driven by a directly connected diesel engine.

Maximum speed of a main generator with a General Motors diesel engine as a prime mover was 750 rpm.

G.E. Main Motors

Each of the four direct-current (DC) propulsion motors is rated at 1,375 horsepower, 415 volts, and 1,300 rpm. Two of the motors are used to drive each propeller, through a reduction gear, at 280 rpm. Each motor is equipped with an air cooler.

Main Storage Batteries

Most American submarines used during World War II had two main storage batteries consisting of two groups of 126 cells each. The forward battery was installed beneath the wardroom country (officers' quarters), and the after battery was located under the crew's main berthing space.

Each battery was fitted with an exhaust ventilating system to remove battery gasses. Hydrogen detectors were used to continuously sample the exhaust air from the batteries to indicate the percentage of hydrogen concentration.

The physical dimensions of an individual cell are:

Most information taken from Submarine Electrical Installations, NAVPERS 16162, June 1946, and from The Fleet Type Submarine, NAVPERS 16160, June 1946.

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